Commanders draft Adam Trick
- Edge Rusher | Texas Tech Red Raiders
- Round No. 5 | Pick No. 149
The Washington Commanders spent significant resources to strengthen the defensive edge this offseason. General manager Adam Peters had no other choice, but this group may need tweaking again next year to further boost confidence.
Odafe Oweh was the big-money signing. K'Lavon Chaisson bet on himself with a one-year deal, and the Commanders would be wise to keep him around if he performs as expected.
After that, the unknowns begin.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. is out of contract and has dealt with injury problems. Fifth-round rookie Joshua Josephs has potential, but he's yet to play a competitive NFL snap. Javontae Jean-Baptiste did well to make the team, but his status is year-to-year.
Adding another gifted pass-rusher from the college ranks is certainly feasible. And it might be worth following Adam Trick's progress carefully during his big transfer to Texas Tech.
Trick was a high-level performer last season for Miami (Ohio). If he can do the same for a Power 4 program, replacing No. 2 pick David Bailey, he'll shoot up draft boards in no time at all.
Commanders draft McKale Boley
- Offensive Tackle | Virginia Cavaliers
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 190
Laremy Tunsil's long-term injury once again showcased how important good depth is at offensive tackle. Brandon Coleman is moving over to the blindside just when it looked like he was winning the left guard job. With the noted problems at center, the protection in front of quarterback Jayden Daniels is already causing great concern before the campaign.
This is something Peters might address with some cheaper options during the 2027 draft. Andrew Wylie is under contract for one more season, but his flaws on the edge are obvious. D.J. Humphries was a late arrival to the club, but he is merely a band-aid solution until Tunsil gets the all-clear to resume football activities.
The Commanders should consider an intriguing development project in the draft. McKale Boley has the size and length to be impactful. There are flaws in his footwork right now, but the upside is there.
Commanders draft Ray Coney
- Linebacker | Texas A&M Aggies
- Round No. 7 | Pick No. 228
The linebacking corps should be an area of strength for the Commanders this season. Four of the five who made the 53-man roster are also under contract in 2027. Frankie Luvu is the only pending free agent, and if he were to depart, he would leave big shoes to fill.
Luvu is the inspirational leader of Washington's defense. The Commanders do have Leo Chenal and No. 7 pick Sonny Styles to take his place, but Jordan Magee and Kain Medrano wouldn't be classed as sure things right now.
Other needs seem likely to take priority initially. But if the Commanders want to find a late-round prospect with the athletic upside to compete for his place in the rotation, keeping tabs on Texas A&M senior Ray Coney wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.
Coney has the size, speed, and strength. He gets around the football, making an astounding 129 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks at Tulane last season. If his transfer to the Aggies takes off, he'll be on the radar of NFL teams.
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